Kjetil “Chet” Lauritsen, PA-C, specializes in orthopedic surgery at Utica Park Clinic and Hillcrest. Chet is fluent in speaking Norwegian and can communicate with Swedes and Danes.

Chet became interested in becoming a physician’s assistant while he worked as a radiologic technologist in an operating room (OR). “I got to see a lot of surgeries during my time as an X-ray technologist. I saw all the cool stuff PAs got to do, which impressed me,” he said.

Chet said he decided to continue his work in the OR because he likes the atmosphere, sense of teamwork and camaraderie that takes place while working through each patient’s case. He builds relationships with patients by listening carefully, avoiding interruptions and always sitting down.

Outside of working in an OR, Chet enjoys playing his guitar, piano and going golfing.